Williamsburg, KY – The UC Patriots needed some extra time, but would come away victorious nearly two weeks ago over the Gyrenes of Ave Maria University 30-23 to move their record to 1-0 on the season. This week, Cumberlands opens their home schedule with the Warriors of Webber International University. The Warriors, now 1-1 on the season, played then tenth-ranked Reinhardt to a ten point loss before destroying the Bulldogs of Union for their first win of 2019. Kickoff for Thursday's contest is set for 7 pm at James H. Taylor, II Stadium. Here are six things to watch for in this week's contest.
 

1. Keep showing your strength early at home.

The Patriots are 5-0 under Head Coach Matt Rhymer in home-opening contests. They are also 4-0 all-time against schools from the Sunshine State. As long as the Patriots continue to do what they have done thus far, this trend should continue once the final whistle sounds on Thursday night.
 

2. Find out who your workhorse wants to be.

In UC's win over Ave Maria, it was the first time in 17 games dating back to October 14, 2017 (46-32 loss to UPike) where UC did not have a running back with 10+ carries. Both Martize Smith and Marquez Trigg gathered nine carries on the game while quarterback Josiah Robbins tallied seven attempts.
 

3. The mix of youth and experience poses an interesting matchup.

The Warriors have nine seniors starting on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball on Thursday. Eight more of those starters are sophomores. The mix should be fun to see as they look to become the first team from the peninsula to knock off the Patriots.
 

4. The Warriors look to attack early.

Webber International is looking for their fifth win in their last six games dating back to last season. Quarterback Cody Braden is also looking to connect with a receiver for his fifth passing TD this season. Rest assured they would much rather be playing ahead early against the Patriots if possible.  
 

5. Secondary must come up big with breakups and interceptions.

Although Braden and the Warriors have only thrown for just under 300 yards on the season, a pair of Warriors already have over 100 yards receiving with a pair of touchdowns. UC must mark up big on Davonte Williams and Timothy Miller, limiting their touches to little if none. Also, if you can get that turnover margin to stay your way, it proves to be a big factor later in the season. UC is currently at +2, so if you can double that after this week, you feel much better entering next week's contest.
 

6. To be successful, you must convert on third downs.

Yes, UC has only played in one game this year, but the numbers are a bit staggering. I know we are just talking about one game, but a 2-14 (16.7%) effort on third down is not what you want to see if you are a Patriot fan. This has to improve over the next couple of weeks, especially entering MSC Bluegrass Division play.
 
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